Dependence, or reliance, refers to the state of needing support or assistance from someone or something. This can occur in various contexts, such as emotional dependence on a friend or family member, or practical reliance on tools and technology for daily tasks. Dependence can be healthy, like relying on a doctor for medical advice, or unhealthy, such as being overly reliant on substances. In relationships, dependence can manifest as one person needing the other for emotional stability or decision-making. While some level of dependence is natural, excessive reliance can lead to issues like codependency, where individuals struggle to function independently. Balancing dependence and independence is crucial for healthy interactions.